A conto vs Fixed Charges for Tenants in Denmark

How do a conto and fixed charges work?

As a tenant in Denmark it is important to understand whether you pay a conto, where the expense is settled according to consumption, or a fixed charge that does not change with each settlement. A conto often means monthly prepayments based on expected consumption, while a fixed charge is typically a fixed monthly billing regardless of measured consumption. See the Rent Act rules on billing and settlement to know which requirements the landlord must meet^[1].

What to check in the lease

• Amounts and billing: check how much you pay and whether it is a conto or a fixed charge.
• Documentation: see whether there are requirements for meters or allocation keys, and which accounts the landlord must be able to present.
• Deadlines and annual statement: check when the landlord must send accounts and refunds if you have overpaid.
• Complaint channels: find out how you can complain and who to contact if you disagree.

Settlement and annual statement

With a conto you normally receive an annual statement where actual consumption is compared to what you have paid. If you have paid too much, the landlord must reimburse, and if you have paid too little, the landlord can demand the remainder. As a tenant you can request a detailed statement and meter readings so you can check the calculation. You can find practical guidance about housing expenses and settlement on borger.dk^[2].

What if you disagree?

Start by contacting the landlord in writing and request a detailed annual statement and explanation. Save all correspondence and receipts. If dialogue does not lead to a solution, you can complain to the local rent tribunal or seek legal advice; the rent tribunals handle many disputes about settlement and billing^[3].

FAQ

What does a conto mean?

A conto is a prepayment based on expected consumption that is later settled against actual consumption.

Can the landlord change a fixed charge?

A fixed charge can only be changed if it is stated in the lease or by agreement between tenant and landlord.

How do I complain about incorrect billing?

First ask the landlord for a written explanation, then complain to the rent tribunal if you cannot reach agreement.

How-To

1. Ask the landlord for a written annual statement and any meter readings.
2. Gather documentation: receipts, consumption measurements and previous accounts.
3. Contact the rent tribunal or seek legal advice if the landlord does not correct the error.

Key takeaways

• Always check the lease for details about billing and settlement.
• Watch deadlines for annual statements and responses to the landlord.
• Keep documentation regularly to be able to prove your consumption.

Help and support / Resources

• [1] The Rent Act on Retsinformation
• [2] Guidance on housing expenses on Borger.dk
• [3] Guidance from the Rent Tribunal

1. [1] The Rent Act on Retsinformation
2. [2] Guidance on housing expenses on Borger.dk
3. [3] Guidance from the Rent Tribunal